The Royal Mint and Ceremonial Coins

Coins struck at The Royal Mint have been used for centuries in ceremonies and you might be surprised to learn about some of the traditions behind them. At one time, it was thought that coins that had been touched by the monarch could cure a disease called scrofula, also known as the ‘King’s Evil’. ‘Touching’ peaked following the Restoration and many believe Charles II touched more than 90,000 sufferers at healing ceremonies. Coins are also central to the Trial of the Pyx, a ceremony dating back hundreds of years. Today, the trial takes place annually at Goldsmiths’ Hall, London, and involves the testing or ‘assaying’ of the weight and quality of the coins struck by The Royal Mint. People often choose to make use of our beautifully crafted coins to help celebrate occasions such as christenings, weddings, anniversaries and birthdays.